Meet&CoAUSTIN, Texas — The Texas State Surplus store, which typically houses a diverse inventory ranging from confiscated items to vehicles, currently faces a notable shortage of office furniture such as desks and chairs. This scarcity coincides with a broader push by employers—both federal and private—to reinstate in-person work requirements.
Following a federal mandate initiated under the Trump administration to recall employees to offices, numerous companies, particularly in Texas, have adopted similar policies. Governor Greg Abbott reinforced this trend in March by mandating full-time in-office work for state employees, aligning with federal directives.
Kristy Fierro, Director of the Texas Surplus Property Program, explained that office furniture in the surplus inventory is sourced from decommissioned assets of state or leased facilities, as well as contributions from the City of Austin. “These items are typically transferred between agencies at no cost, while the remainder is sold to the public,” Fierro stated. She noted a surge in demand for office furnishings as organizations prepare workspaces for returning employees.
The shift contrasts with trends observed during the COVID-19 pandemic. An analysis by The New York Times’ The Upshot highlighted Austin as the U.S. city with the highest growth in remote workers during that period. However, recent mandates have spurred a reversal, with businesses now prioritizing in-office operations.
“Many organizations are re-equipping offices with essentials like desks, standing desks, and chairs to accommodate returning staff,” Fierro added. The surplus store’s current inventory challenges reflect the broader transition underway as Texas navigates evolving workplace norms.
This development underscores the tangible impacts of return-to-office policies on both public resources and private sector preparedness.
